Page 15 - Classically Carolina 2017

W
S N
E

plastic ball similar to a whiffle ball, has been in Jim Russell Tournament of the Year in 2015 by the
existence since 1965 but it has experienced a U.S. Tennis Association’s South Carolina chapter.
major popularity surge in recent years. Players say The complex also makes an important statement
the game action is somewhat slower than tennis that Camden is committed to its residents and
or other smaller paddle sports such as racquetball, businesses. The complex will be an important
but still offers plenty of challenge -- and a great anchor point for revitalization and redevelopment
workout. efforts in an area of town that needs it. In addition,
“It’s fun!” noted local enthusiast Terri Geddings. locating the complex so near to shopping, dining
“I had never even heard of it until recently, but and entertainment opportunities in downtown
when I started playing, I was hooked.” Camden should give those area businesses an
Pickleball’ s popularity in Camden follows a added boost to their traffic and ultimately to their
national trend. The game has become one of the bottom lines.
fastest growing sports in the country, according to “We took into consideration certain amenities
the USA Pickleball Association, with nearly 4,000 that would set this tennis complex apart from
places to play in the United States alone. others around the state to make it more attractive
With the new complex and its amenities, to regional tournaments and the public in
Camden not only helps enhance and add to general,” Camden City Manager Mel Pearson said.
existing outdoor recreation options for residents, it “Unlike most facilities of this size, we are located
is becoming a premiere destination for tennis and right downtown, within easy walking distance to
pickleball enthusiasts to visit and enjoy, both as shops and restaurants. In this respect, Camden’s
players and as spectators. tennis complex is unique. As players and their
Camden has already established its bona fides family, friends and spectators can easily access
as a tournament destination. The Classically shopping, dining and sightseeing so conveniently,
Carolina USTA Junior Championships, which is we expect to see an economic boost, just as other
a collaborative effort between the city of Camden, communities have when similar venues have been
Kershaw County School District, Kershaw County added to the community.”
Recreation Department, Camden Country Club and Plans call for the Classically Carolina Tennis
local businesses, not only has become one of the most Complex to be completed and ready for use by fall
popular tournaments in the state, it was named the 2017.

Camden ~ Classically Carolina / 27